We had the good fortune of connecting with K. S. Tehara and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi K. S., do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
+ In the journey of launching SAUNA SAUNA, I embrace the belief that “you know when you get there”. With five years in fashion, my philosophy is persistence until it’s impractical. Together with Stefan Maier, we’re crafting a NYC studio focused on testing our small-batch productions to guide our path—persist or pivot. We aim to redefine the modern male wardrobe, adapting traditional ideas with a contemporary context.

+ Feedback drives our process; each product iteration refines based on past responses. Lukewarm feedback on some initial items prompts reassessment or discontinuation, guiding our decisions. As we gear up for a full collection launch, direct customer interaction, trying on pieces, becomes pivotal. Garments excellence hinges on construction and fit over sentimentality, informing our choices.

+ Our quest isn’t just about persistence; it’s about gauging longevity. We’re keenly aware of when to evolve or risk obsolescence. By balancing intuition with practical insights, we navigate when to push forward and when to recalibrate, ensuring SAUNA SAUNA remains relevant and innovative in the dynamic fashion landscape. We hope to have the first full showing come September 2024 and that is when I suppose we properly gauge whether to keep going or to give up.

+ In my upcoming collection titled “All these arid places” for my solo practice “Object + Apparel Research” at NYFW this September, I’ve explored the concept of balance—specifically, how to navigate the line between innovation and excess in a time of overconsumption. Integrating craft techniques like crochet and screen printing, I’ve prioritized finding methods that are not only cost-effective but also efficient in terms of time which is often a reason that industry decides to give up on ideas.

+ A significant aspect of my practice involves leveraging technology to bridge gaps and enhance efficiency. By incorporating these tools, I aim to extend the boundaries of what’s feasible, thereby challenging conventional limits on when to persevere or reconsider.

+ For me, the key indicator in deciding whether to persist or pivot lies in evaluating the consequences of each decision. Understanding the repercussions allows me to gauge the potential impact and sustainability of my choices within my creative process.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
+ My art and approach to design are deeply rooted in a passion for research and development, coupled with an unconventional, ad-hoc methodology. What sets me apart is my belief in questioning established norms and embracing practicality and efficiency in every aspect of my work.

+ Professionally, I’ve reached this point with immense support from friends, colleagues, and mentors who encouraged my openness to new ideas. Attending prestigious institutions like Central Saint Martins and Parsons School of Design played a pivotal role, where I immersed myself fully and engaged hands-on in every opportunity.

+ The journey hasn’t been easy; navigating a creative path within structured industries poses challenges. I’ve learned to accept and learn from mistakes, understanding that growth comes from embracing setbacks. Looking back, I’d advise my younger self to be patient, not rush, and recognize that success requires perseverance and dedication.

+ Sauna Suana, my latest endeavour with Stefan Maier, builds upon the foundation laid by when working together on my personal project “Object + Apparel Research”. We’re reshaping the concept of a garment studio, aiming to be innovative and sustainable. Our vision includes local sourcing, inclusive methods of design, and fostering a community that actively engages with clothing in a meaningful way.

+ Ultimately, I want the world to see Sauna Suana as more than just a brand; it’s a platform for conscious design and community building. We aim to reduce consumption, encourage creative participation, and, above all, have fun in the process. Our journey is about pushing boundaries, redefining norms, and creating a positive impact within the fashion industry and beyond. You may see some clothes, you may see some bags but you may also see some lighting structures.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
+ When my friends visit NYC, I ensure they experience the best of the city. We start with cabbage dumplings at King Dumpling in the Lower East Side and enjoy coffee at Botani Cafe for a relaxing afternoon. Exploring shops like Dover Street Market and Mast Books, known for their curated selections, is a must. We might take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of Manhattan. Evenings are spent savoring beer at Father Knows Best in Bushwick or Lambrusco at Congress in Cobble Hill, and enjoying dinners at Cachapa Y Mas for Venezuelan flavors. Don’t miss Cafe Himalaya for their incredible Tsel Momo, and try the Cake Batter Ice Cream at Ralphs. For unique finds, visit International Object or explore the Dia Foundation in NYC. If you’re into live Jazz, Ornithology in Bushwick offers impressive performances and peculiar cocktails. NYC always offers something new to discover! P. S. Try out Bangklyn in East Harlem one of the best Thai places in NYC as well as some of the most interesting vintage.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There is an endless amount of people who helped me get here but shout out to a few in my community:

+ Jakob Sitter – Artist
+ Stefan Maier – Fashion Designer – Co-creative director of Sauna Sauna
+ Shinnie Park – Writer
+ Julia Dotson – Craftsperson
+ Emma McClelland – Textile Artist
+ Namita Khade – Knitwear Designer
+ Alex Lawton – Musician
+ Amy Vergeron – Chain Stitch Maestro
+ Luke Teigen – Menswear Designer
+ Josie de Anda – Crochet Maestro

Outside my community, I would say Dries Van Noten, shout out to his last collection which happened recently, and what an aspirational fashion designer and textile maestro.

Website: https://saunasauna.studio/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k.s.tehara/

Other: https://www.instagram.com/s.auna.s.auna/

Image Credits
Image 1 – Courtesy of Object + Apparel Research + Model: Jakob Sitter
Image 2 – Courtesy of Object + Apparel Research
Image 3 – Courtesy of Object + Apparel Research
Image 4 – Courtesy of Object + Apparel Research
Image 5 – Image from SAUNA SAUNA
Image 6 – Image from SAUNA SAUNA
Image 7 – Image from SAUNA SAUNA
Image 8 – Image from SAUNA SAUNA + Model: Zhiliang Zhao

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